Although it gets quite hot, the big apple is full of entertainment during the summer. There will never be a day where you have nothing to do. Whether you are taking a stroll through the park or dancing on the rooftop of the Gansevoort Hotel, you will surely have a great time.
Landmarks
Manhattan wouldn't be the same if not for the landmarks and history.Take a walk through midtown to see Grand Central Station and Trump Tower. Get on a ferry to Ellis Island to view the Statue of Liberty. Ride the elevator up to the top of the famous Empire State Building. You may also want to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to cross the East River to see wonderful views of lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and Governor's Island.
Central park
On a beautiful day, nothing is better than taking a walk through Central Park. As you walk around you will enjoy the sounds of nature and see the most greenery in the city. Aesthetic structures, bridges, and ponds are pleasing to the eye as you roam around one of the cities most famous parks. Walking around you will likely come across the center of Central Park, the Great Lawn. This 55-acre area is where people have picnics, relax, and enjoy the sun.
Free Concerts
The park also has free shows you can attend throughout the summer. Located on the east side of the park by the 69th street entrance, Rumsey Playfield is home to the many sounds of summer. Rumsey Playfield is where SummerStage and Good Morning America concerts take place. SummerStage hosts numerous performances throughout June, July, and August in different city parks, Central Park being a popular one. SummerStage features a variety of different music, dance, and theatre. Check out the shows in Central Park and other parks performing in the city here. If you an early riser, you may want to attend one of Good Morning America's summer concerts. Every Friday morning between 7-9 am at Rumsey Playfield, GMA has live concerts open to the public featuring a schedule of many popular artists.
Tavern on the Green
One of Central Park's landmarks, this tavern is located on 67th street and Central Park West. The restaurant is comprised of Chef Katy Sparks' rustic foods, with unique menus for different times of the day. The tavern has a brunch, lunch, mid-day, dinner, late night, and green-to-go menu for you to enjoy.
The Loeb Boathouse
If you love nature, you will enjoy the boathouse. Designed to blend in with Central Park's surroundings, the restaurant is located right on the lake. You can enjoy dinner, grab a drink, or engage in tradition and rent a boat. If you are feeling romantic why not rent a rowboat or take a ride in one of their gondolas.
Museums
New York City is filled with many museums you can spend the day at. Whichever museums you decide to see, don't leave without visiting these.
American Museum of Natural History
Located on 79th street and Central Park West, this is one of the largest museums in the city. The museum is known for the vast amount of scientific collections and exhibits on world cultures.
The MoMa (Museum of Modern Art)
On West 53rd street between 5th and 6th avenue, you will encounter the MoMa. Well known for its collections in modern art, there are many exhibits to keep you occupied. Throughout the MoMa's many floors you will encounter architecture, paintings, home décor, designs, and more. During summer the MoMa also hosts their Summergarden. Located in the Sculpture Garden, on Sundays from July 7-28 there will be live classical and jazz music. Summergarden is free and seating is on a first come first served basis. Summergarden concerts start at 8pm.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Located on 82nd and 5th Avenue, the Met is amongst some of the largest art museums in the world. After you admire different exhibits, sculptures, and events you must take an elevator up to the Roof Garden Café and Martini Bar. Here you can have a drink and admire a beautiful view overlooking Central Park
Restaurants
There is never a shortage of restaurants in the city. Whatever type of food your taste buds desire, you will surely find it. However during summer you may want to enjoy eating at a place that has outdoor seating.
The Frying Pan
Very popular is the Lightship Frying Pan docked at Pier 66 Maritime. You can enjoy some food and drinks on a floating railroad barge.
Beer Gardens
As summer comes around, many beer gardens open up to show you a good time. These popular ones will surely entertain you: The Blue Ribbon Beer Garden, The Standard Biergarten, and Berry Park
Pure Food and Wine
If you want to try something different, check out this raw vegan restaurant. When the weather is nice, have a seat in their beautiful outdoor garden in Gramercy Park and enjoy. Even if you're a meat lover, their unique menu will be a pleasant surprise.
AguaGrill
You mustn't go the summer without eating some seafood. Take a trip to SoHo to one of NYC's finest seafood restaurants on 6th Avenue and Spring Street. Make a reservation to sit in their outdoor patio area and enjoy some oysters.
Back Forty
This burger joint, located on 12th street and Avenue B, is one you don't want to miss. Have some of their western food and juicy organic burgers while sitting in their outdoor garden. The outdoor garden is open all the time, rain or shine. You also may want to go to one of their crab boils. Every summer they continue this tradition. Sitting around a table of friends, you crack open some crabs and enjoy a pitcher of beer. You must make a reservation and buy a ticket to this event that takes place every Tuesday until the end of August. For $50 you get a mountain of crabs, side dishes, and pitchers of beer.
Paradou
In the meatpacking district you may want to take refuge in Paradou's hidden garden. With a selection of over 40 of the finest wines, you will surely forget where you are in this Province village-like atmosphere.
The River Café
If you don't mind taking a little trip on the subway, take a ride to one of Brooklyn's most famous restaurants. Located under the Brooklyn Bridge, you get amazing views of the city. A dress code is mandatory after 5pm for dinner at this breathtaking establishment that looks over the river.
High Line
While you are in the city, you must check out the High Line. This public park is built on a freight rail line, which is elevated over the streets of the west side. It runs from Manhattan's Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking to west 34th street. While walking along the High Line you will see many outdoor cafes placed for your enjoyment.
Lounges
During the summer most parties take place on a rooftop. There are numerous places to choose from to dance, relax, and listen to music with some friends. Some popular places to go this summer are: Hudson Terrace, The Delancey Rooftop, Le Bain at the Standard Hotel, The Plunge at the Gansevoort Hotel, Dream Hotel's Ava Lounge and Phd, Salon de Ning on top of The Peninsula Hotel, and the Press Lounge.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
